Nordic ski racing consists of two distinct techniques...classical and freestyle.

Clasical is the traditional technique which goes back many centuries and requires the skier to keep his/her skis parallel and in groomed trackes.  Skills required are the diagonal stide, double pole, and kick double pole.

Freestyle or skating is the newer technique which has its beginnings in the early to mid 1980's.  The most common skills used in this technique are the open field which is commonly used on flats or gradual uphills, the V-1 which is used when climbing hills and the V-2 which is often used when faster spurts of speed are desired.

In high school racing, about one-half of the races are classical and one-half freestyle.  Some races i.e. Conference, Section, and state meets use a "pursuit" format which allows the use of both techniques on the same day.  It goes without saying that both techniques require good downhill technique as well. 

All athletes are welcome to participate in Nordic Skiing.  We will never cut athletes in order to maintain a certain number.  It is our goal that athletes on the Nordic Ski team are students first and foremost.  It has been the reputation of the Nordic Ski team to have members who take great pride in class work as well as on the ski trails.

In addition, we as coaches aim to produce a team that is respectful and well respected in the Northwest Suburban Conference, Section 5AA, and the State of Minnesota.  By being part of this team we hope to help develop each individual's potential, self-esteem, and confidence.  We hope each individual will grow as a result of his/her experience with the Nordic Ski team.  We do expect our skiers to take pride in our sport and to show dedication to our sport through their ability to follow directions, attendance, and attitude.

Return the registration forms (health card, proof of physical, Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) form) and fees to the athletic office before practice November 9th, 2009.  You will receive a "clearance" form that needs to be given to the coaches at the first practice before you will be allowed to practice with the team.

We will meet on the PE mezzanine each day at 2:45PM.  We will have practice in all weather conditions unless informed otherwise.  Make sure you have a wide variety of clothing to wear.

1. Skis, boots, and poles
2. Be prepared to dress in layers
3. Uniforms provided
4. Basic Glide and Kick Wax
   

Attendence at practice and meets is mandatory

• Work is not an acceptable excuse from practice or meets
• Please make appointments (doctor, dental, etc.) around practice times
• Our expectation is that the athletes communicate with us and inform us if they will be absent due to unavoidable situations-if we are not informed it will be an unexcused absense.  Be responsible.  If you must be absent from practice or if an emergency situation arises, please call or e-mail Coach Tremaine.
• If need to make up school work, schedule it around practice times (i.e. in a study hall or before school)
• If have an unexcused absence the day before a meet or are absent from school for more than half of the day of the meet, you will not be allowed to participate in the meet.